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Thursday, February 18, 2010

America?

While at our latest visit to Breaktime in Salisbury, we were greeted with a interesting new policy.

It seems you are no longer allowed to wear coat, gloves, or boots even though its 20 degrees and snow on the ground. Who are they kidding?

151 comments:

Anonymous said...

It is a shame they have to resort to that

Anonymous said...

I support this policy. It says not worn INSIDE. When you look at what's been going on at Chef Fred's, I think establishments like these needs to take precautions to keep shady behavior out. Breaktime is one of the few bars around here I visit (Greene Turtle being the only other) as they have a much more lax and relaxed atmosphere than the other's. (eg. Brew River, Chef Fred's and Monkey Barrel)

DJ

Anonymous said...

Its discrimination and they are setting themselves up.

Anonymous said...

good for them i will start going there agian. i can take my coat off in the car if not allowed at the door, no big deal. sounds like a good set of rules.

Anonymous said...

If you cant read between the lines on these rules than you need to wise up. The rules are only aimed towards a certain group of people.

Margo Demers said...

Welcome to Salisbury, haven of gangs.

Anonymous said...

Good for them for not putting up with the thugs who dont care and start s(%t that just dont go out to have a good time

Anonymous said...

It's discrimination against who? Coat-wearers? Do I sense some underlying racism in your post 10:24?

DJ

Anonymous said...

I've been to several places with these policies....it's easier to conceal weapons with baggy clothing and big coats. With the crime around here, and the history of violence at some locations, I'm ok with this.
If some establishments require a coat and tie, why can't others request a different dress code?

Anonymous said...

These ain't the rules for white folks

Anonymous said...

I love breaktime. As a young black male, I used to get pissed at clubs that tried this mess. Now that I've seen how things have went down at some of the other spots in town, I can't blame the owner for changing things up. But the "no [Tims] or similar boots" rule is still stupid if you ask me. That hits both guys coming in for a beer after work as well as those who simply wear them for fashion.

Anonymous said...

10.24 its not discrimination unless rules are based on sex, gender, color, religon, etc, not looking at 8" of someone's underwear or f... u on a sleeveless t shirt... get real

Anonymous said...

Not at all, I judge all people by the carachter of their soul and the actions they choose to take. All people. But it is illegal.

Anonymous said...

Only private membership clubs can do this.

Anonymous said...

Anon 10:27...What group of people are you talking about? The only 'group of people' I can see this being aimed at, is the people that seem to be unable to wear clothes as they were intended, during the conditions they were intended for.

Except maybe the blind...it says no sunglasses. I'd hate to see Breaktime go down for profiling all blind people entering their establishment!!?!

Grow up people, the racism card is overplayed...and this certainly isn't a case where it can even be loosely translated to racism.


***Attitude Counts***
DJ

Anonymous said...

it's a shame some people can't act civilized in our society !

Anonymous said...

10:31 these rules do apply to white people, Its not just (some)blacks that are making our city unsafe.

I applaud breaktime though for this rule change.

Anonymous said...

10:24 and 10:31,
These are the rules for everyone! And discrimination against who?!?! Thugs and gangmembers(white or black)?!?!

Anonymous said...

In America you cant tell a person what kind of boots they can where.

Anonymous said...

Sorry if this is a repeat, I don't think the original comment went through.

10:28am, it's an obvious attempt to keep young blacks, many of whom dress in this fashion, from entering the establishment. Unfortunately the rules have been justified by the acts of a few idiots who can't seem to come out the house and have a good time without causing trouble.

I just hope that people realize that the majority of us simply go out to have a good time with friends or chill after a long work day/week. It's a shame that a few bad apples can really spoil the bunch.

Anonymous said...

Thank God they are taking back some dignity to their establishment. Perhaps this will invite more self-respect to the patrons, to include dressing in a manner that creates a safer feeling/atmosphere for all.

citygoer said...

Good to know that even a simple game of pool around here has the chance to be violent at a local establishment. I thought this sort of thing didnt happen around here. Having moved here from a large city with numerous well established bars and clubs they rarely had violence like they have around here. The big bad city isnt as bad as most here would like to think. Its mostly ignorance though since those that talk bad about large cities have likely never lived there or visited long enough to have any real reason to hate it. Its just easier to say it sucks because around here is so safe and culture rich, lol.

Anonymous said...

I feel that its a slam to the white folks that we can have a Cracker Barrel. whats up with that this is racist I want some WET Tv White Entertainment Television also.....Boy what a world we live in

Anonymous said...

Great policy! Keeps the trash out. As far as legality...this is not a government facility. It's a private business. If you don't like it...do us all a favor and Don't visit!!

Anonymous said...

I agree with the dress code & conduct rules. It keeps the people who want to start trouble out and the people who just want to have a good time safe. Seacrets has a similar dress code. Good for Breaktime! :)

Anonymous said...

I myself agree with the new rules set in place. No this does not only apply to just one race either. So yes, the race card is getting overplayed. Breaktime if just simply trying to establish a place that people won't have to worry about going to. If you don't like the rules, don't go there. It's that simple.

Anonymous said...

10:24am...Discrimination? Are you serious? The world owes you a favor too, right?

Anonymous said...

Its a POOL HALL!!!! Not a upscale bar. YOUR NOT SEACRETS!

Anonymous said...

It's not just about gangs and weapons. People have been smuggling their own bottles of alcohol in there and getting drunk without ordering more than one drink from the bar. It's a liability issue for the bar.

doug wilkerson said...

Better get your lawyer ready, cause your gonna need him/her. I understand what the motivations behind it are, but that does not justify being able to dictate what another (FREE) LEGAL American citizen can wear or not wear. No profanity or ethnic remarks on clothing, who decides that?

Anonymous said...

Discrimination? Well I don't know where you are from but there are more white punks dressed like this than black people anymore. They are just trying to keep a safe atmosphere for their patrons. As for illegal I doubt that very seriously as restaurants,which this is also, are allowed to call for a dress code.

Anonymous said...

The world doesnt owe me a thing, I already have more than I ever deserved@11:03.

Anonymous said...

Anon 10:59... get some new material. Stealing from mid 90's comics isn't very funny.

Some of the rules are dumb, like the no tims, but for the most part I see nothing wrong with it.

Anonymous said...

Somebody e-mail Timberland and see if they think its justifiable.

Anonymous said...

"10:28am, it's an obvious attempt to keep young blacks, many of whom dress in this fashion, from entering the establishment. Unfortunately the rules have been justified by the acts of a few idiots who can't seem to come out the house and have a good time without causing trouble."

Since your comment was directed to me, I will respond. Yes, many young thuggish blacks dress in this fashion, as do MANY thuggish whites. I will not patronize an establishment filled with this type of riffraff. This does NOT make me RACIST in any way.

It's extremely true that a few bad apples will spoil the entire barrel. If I know this, and by dressing in this fashion, I'm going to be generalized in with that group of 'bad apples', I would attempt to disassociate myself from that stereotype. I wear clothes that fit me, and I wear them as they were intended to be worn. I suggest everyone else do the same. Clothing doesn't necessarily define who you are, but when first impressions mean everything, I would attempt to dress respectably.

***ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING***
DJ

Anonymous said...

You also have to be at least 21 years old to enter this establishment

Anonymous said...

This is the silliest thing what next?: NO Shemagh's,Turbins,Burka's, Mao Jackets.........serial killers have one drooping eye and three names be sure to card them. Clothes dont make the Boogie man.

Anonymous said...

Happy to read about the dress code and I approve 100%. Just because someone dresses like trash does not mean they should be permitted or granted access to a business. Keep up the good work and enforce the dress code!

Anonymous said...

that sucks because i wear my timberlands everywhere because they r good boots and comfortable

Anonymous said...

Typical wet pants liberals in here trying to defend the lower class trash and thugs instead of supporting correct behavior and attire. Why do good upstanding citizens be forced to deal with POS trash if we want to go enjoy ourselves. Wake up people and clean yourselves up and enter a better society.

Anonymous said...

Its about to get real interesting.

Anonymous said...

Pants on the ground pants ground loking like a fool with your pants the ground.

Anonymous said...

This dress code is very similar to the new dress code going into effect at my daughter's (Seaford) school next fall. I completely agree with it. Get used to it, folks.

Anonymous said...

World wide.

Anonymous said...

Good for you Break Time, I haven't been there for 4 years because of the gang members inside. Maybe i will give another shot. Great effort trying to clean up you act. I still won't go to Brew River, I saw nothing but red badanas and timberland boots.

Signed,
Middle Class, Hard Working, law abiber, who does not live on welfare and refuses handouts.

Anonymous said...

11:10am - "Better get your lawyer ready"? Are you serious? You embody all that is wrong with this nation. Somebody doesn't like the rules so they lawyer up before ever aplpying common sense to the issue. This is very simple. It's a privately owned business issuing rules that apply to E-V-E-R-Y-O-N-E! Which fails to meet the criteria for Discrimination. They have the right to make rules to protect their facilty just as you have the right to not frequent the establishment. Do us all a favor and exercise that right vigorously!

doug wilkerson said...

12:08 "I embody all that is wrong with this nation" why because I think this is illegal? Because I have a different opinion than you? Trust me you will never see me there or anywhere else for that matter. Those are some strong statements for a GHOST.(ANON).

Anonymous said...

I agree with this 100% and I think the Mall should be next. White, black or whatever!

Anonymous said...

hey folks, what does timberland have to do with any of this. they didnt ban a brand of shoes for goodness sake. and ive seen plenty of white people wearing the things listed on the dress codes. i think i am starting to understand what a wetpants liberal is. thanks joe :)

Anonymous said...

Better get your lawyer ready, cause your gonna need him/her. I understand what the motivations behind it are, but that does not justify being able to dictate what another (FREE) LEGAL American citizen can wear or not wear. No profanity or ethnic remarks on clothing, who decides that?

11:10 AM


Does a bowling ally tell you what kind of shoes you can where? How about a B ball court at the Y, golf course too? How about school dress codes? And even where you work too, mst times for safty reasons, right? Then WHY NOT for public safety? If it YOUR establishment, then YOU have the RIGHT to REFUSAL! You should know this Doug!

Anonymous said...

Doug W...11:10
"Better get your Lawyer ready"

Did you just graduate from the ACLU school for liberals. What about Schools with dress codes, or a business. You gonna sue them too because you can't where your flat brime baseball hat and your favorite tims?

I remember the Flying Club, They had a dress code and it was a great crowd everynight, We need a bar/restaurant like that again. Sure, they would have fights, but at least you did not worry about getting shot, stabbed, raped...etc.

Lets face it, we need to get back to real values in our society, starting with self respect.

joealbero said...

I am rejecting the stupid comments from this point forward. No capital letters, that's our policy.

If you attack a Catholic Priest and or personal attacks and the use of the "N Word" they too will be rejected.

If you want to act ignorant, go to the ignorant site of JT.

doug wilkerson said...

Im not buying it and Im sure Timberland wont eighter. Whats to much jewelry? Who decides that? My shirts to big. Who decides that? My wifes purse is to big. Who decides that? We all are entitled to our opinions because we live in America, seems mine is different than most of yours. I can accept that, Timberland wont.

Anonymous said...

If you dont like it, go somewhere else. plain and simple. i like these bar room lawyer comments lol. its their business and their requirements. they reserve the right to refuse service and impliment in rules for the business for the safety of their employees and customers. you dont like it then eat crap and go to the green turtle then.

doug wilkerson said...

12:24 I wouldnt sue anyone, I simply said that someone will. Im a liberal, I dont think so buddy.

joealbero said...

To the rest of you making assumptions, your comments will also be rejected. Don't come here and make remarks as if they're fact.

Instead of trying to make remarks that would clearly hurt their business, my suggestion is that you call them and ask them directly. Don't ass u me things until you confirm it.

Anonymous said...

A private business has the right to refuse service to anyone they want to.

I don't go to bars very often, if I do, it's because they also serve good food or they have a band I want to listen to.

With so many bars to choose from, why not go somewhere that doesn't have these issues and rules.

I have lived in the Ocean City area now for 10 years. Seacrets has similar dress code rules. I have been to Seacrets once, for lunch.

joealbero said...

Doug, opinions and rules are two different things.

Anonymous said...

It's shame when you spend and borrow a lot of money to open a bar & restaurant and pool hall that your not allowed to have the clientele that you wish to have ! Who took the risk to open it ? Government or a small business owner ? I think the rules should be even stricter .

Anonymous said...

It doesn't matter how you feel about it. A private business has the right to refuse anyone service with or without cause. God bless America!!!!

Anonymous said...

Well...I guess a certain "clientele" will have to go back to the Brew River, huh??? Hahahahahahahahahaaaa...seeya yo!

Anonymous said...

oops upon closer examination i see that they did ban a particular type of shoe. that one im not sure about but a general dress code i can agree with. sorry timberland, you are not welcome at breaktime. i stand corrected.

Anonymous said...

Joe, the catholic priest bit was obviously a metaphorical example. Come on man.

Anonymous said...

If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, and looks like a duck...it's a duck.

If it walks like a gang member, talks like a gang member, and dresses like a gang member....its a gang member,... white, black, purple, yellow, orange...

Anonymous said...

I understand the concept but if management has the right to refuse service to anyone why then do we need a long list of rules. Things like no sunglasses and no boots, that kind of stuff is crazy. You start infringing on normal civilians. You pay to have bouncers there right? Then why not have them do their job and bounce problems out. Sounds a bit like the airline industry. Nevermind the fact someone bought a one way ticket, had no luggage, paid cash, etc. but now during the last hour of a flight nothing allowed in your lap. Again, I understand the concept but going after the wrong ones. That's what some of these rules are. Is there a reason for 17 rules to get in or rather a few general rules and a staff that will enforce people leaving that are not acting right.

Alex said...

Doug Wilkerson,

I believe that this is the first time that I have ever agreed with your opinion. I belive you're dead on.
Some private clubs have the right to dress code rules, but whomever wrote this, used poor wording. I don't know what Timberland has to do with it. I think this policy aims to prohibit steel-toe boots. I don't know if Timberland makes them though.

Anonymous said...

Obviously the reason they spell out these rules is to avoid charges of racism.

Why all the fuss ?

Go somewhere else if you don't like it. Vote with your wallet. Too many crybabies.

Anonymous said...

10:32, I absolutely agree with you. Especially in snowy weather, I prefer to wear a workboot that I don't mind messing up.

10:44 said,"it's an obvious attempt to keep young blacks, many of whom dress in this fashion, from entering the establishment."

10:44, you didn't finish the sentence. It's an obvious attempt to keep young blacks, many of whom dress in this fashion, from entering the establishment-dressed in this fashion. They aren't trying to keep a certain people from coming in they just want those people coming in adhering to their dress standards. They own it, if you don't like it don't go there. Sorry.

To the "go to the Green Turtle" comment, don't send the riffraff my way. Send them to Brew River.

Anonymous said...

I see no problem with the owners right to decide who enters his club, how they are attired or how they behave.

If you don't like the rules, don't go there. Most likely you're not welcome there anyway.

You can sit home and drink in your underwear and tee shirts and nobody cares. The general public does.

Grow up and support the ones who are trying to make you safer.

Anonymous said...

Why is this a big issue? Every bar in Salisbury has been doing this since 2001. Its nothing new. It must be done or there will be no bars. The idiots that wear clothes to violate these rules are undesirable people. Everyone who has not worked in a late night bar atmosphere should def do it for like a month. It will blow your mind what happens at the front door.

Anonymous said...

Its a POOL HALL!!!! Not a upscale bar. YOUR NOT SEACRETS! (11:09)

Since when is Seacrets upscale? People walk around in swimsuits during the day, and at night it's a meat market where they don't even have floors, just sand! Surly uninterested bartenders serving me overpriced watered-down frozen drinks ain't upscale, brotha.

Anonymous said...

It's not necessarily telling people they can't come there at all it's just saying if they want to then they need to clean up their looks a bit. They can still stick to their own persona; 'style' while wearing pants where needed and shirts that aren't down to their knees. It's a security measure that should obviously be taken. If the people don't have anything to hide (drugs or weapons) then there shouldn't be an issue with cleaning up their look just a bit. I have been to several of the bars around this area and they all have their own issues. It's good to see them stepping up to take care of something before it becomes a much bigger issue.

Anonymous said...

I love how the wet pants Liberals have no problem with taking our constitutional rights away but get their panties in a bind if an establishment asks for a dress code.

Anonymous said...

I work at a restaurant in Salisbury... is it just coincidence that the customers who are rude; treat each other, the staff and other customers badly and tip poorly dressed like this? I don't think so... let them stay at home.

Anonymous said...

also, the "clientele" they are keeping out are rude and think tipping is a city in China!

Anonymous said...

Break Time just got my business, now I'll know what not to expect when walking in.

Great Job Breaktime.

Anonymous said...

I didnt know anyone even went to Greene Turtle, Brew River or Breaktime anymore. Is this some type of timewarp...? Come to the downtown bars people. Way more relaxed and a lot more fun.(in my opinion)

TDT

Anonymous said...

they do the dress code because they dont wanna end up like the cactus,u know all the drugs, rift raft, fighting,with all the buying an selling of drugs in the cactus, that place could b a factory. chef freds is just as bad, who are they kidding, trying to change the name to fox tales, please.....these two bars need drive up windows!!!!

doug wilkerson said...

OK, I never said that the discrimination was against any race, religion or ethnic group. Its two parts,(imho) first when you put a brand name of a legal product up on the sign you are discriminating against that brand name. That could open you up to civil litigation. Second, in this country we have the right to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of happiness. Take that word Liberty, to me that means I have the Liberty to wear my hair anyway I want. I have the Liberty to wear Timberlake boots, some other boot or no boots at all. I have the Liberty to wear a baseball cap on my head how ever I choose, or not wear one at all. I have the Liberty to have twenty body rings and a ring on every finger or no rings at all. I have the liberty to wear whatever color clothes I choose or to wear all black. I have the Liberty to wear clothes that are a bit large if they make me feel comfortable or I can wear tight clothes to try to look bigger. My point is that if you sacrifice your Liberties, youve already lost. I dont feel like giving up my Liberties for anyone, for any reason. You dont fight crime by sacrificing your Liberties.

Anonymous said...

It's no different than a restaurant that requires a shirt with a collar, or a tie or a jacket to be seated.

For those who see it as discriminatory, it is, but not illegally so. It's meant to weed out the gangsters and pretend gangsters.

Anonymous said...

So what" Doug "is saying we should all have to suffer so he is not inconvenienced in anyway . So if you get killed well that's life right Doug !

Anonymous said...

Doug going to Breaktime is not a right it's a choice if you don't like the rules go somewhere else where you can embrace the thug life !!!

Anonymous said...

And Doug I have the Liberty to say how someone needs to dress to enter my business.

Anonymous said...

TDT: downtown bars? Salisbury has a downtown? Fill me in on where these nice spots are.

Anonymous said...

This isn't something brand new. When I was younger and patronized clubs like Little Jimmys and the Pub they too had a codes. Shirts had to have collors and you didn't get in looking like a freaking hobo.These punks that want to dress with their drooping pants and hats turned around and display a limited vocabulary made up of only obscene words and gestures are only looking for trouble and need to be kept out anyway. Moral** Dress like a thug and you'll get treated like a thug !!!

Anonymous said...

Doug I'm trying to understand what you have to say here but Breaktime is just trying to attract a more hospitable crowd. To be honest I vowed never to go go back to the wannabe gangsta hang out ever again but I may just give them another try now they are attempting to clean the place up. I love shooting pool but I can't find a decent place to go anymore. With that said how about my civil rights to go to a place and not feel threatened by a bunch of hoodlums.

Anonymous said...

To those complaining about this: Get a grip! BT is a privately-owned business. They aren't stopping you from wearing Timberland boots, baggy pants, etc. They are just saying that, if you do, you aren't welcome there - and they have every right to do so.

Anonymous said...

Can't say I blame them. If you can't dress right stay out. We don't want to see your ass hanging out and hear you talk your trash.

Anonymous said...

it is not discrimination. it is called keeping your bar profitable.
see what happened to mulligans, soon to happen to chef fred, then a new place will be targeted. brew river saved themselves with this style of rules and grats to breaktime for doing the same. at least there is one place that cares about its image!

Anonymous said...

Doug's say'n he wants you to respect his liberty's and per suite of happiness and to he!! with anyone else s........

Doug, you can do what you like at your place, and sometimes even in public. But when you enter someone else's place, business or home.....Show Some Respect for Others

Anonymous said...

You know what? The current logic ain't workin. Sometimes you have to think outside of the box. If the bulk of your problems are coming from thugs wearing or displaying these types of fashion, then rid yourself of this type of fashion and hopefully the problem is gone. If it was my business and I wanted it to be a respectable place free of drama, I would consider the same thing. I have seen people of a races that these rules would apply, so don't give me the racist crap. That has become so worn out. If you don't like these rules, then choose to go to another establishment. (until that place finds out how well it worked and imposes the same rules) All you have to do is dress appropriately, not cause problems, and everything will be fine. If you have an issue with that, then you shouldn't be in any public places. No one wants to see your drawers hangin out (that was started by gays in prison by the way), or anything that reminds them of a gang. People go out for a good time, not a hassle.

Chimera said...

Nobody is telling anyone what they cannot wear,you wear what you want,just dont wear it in their business.This IS America,its a private business and like any other they have the right to refuse service to ANYONE.

Anonymous said...

I like the rules and can understand the owner(s) wanting to stay in business. remember the night club on Northwood Dr that failed a few years ago, however rule # 9 should not name a brand, maybe: NO oversized boots or unlaced boots (room for a weapon) rule # 10 should say: NO oversized tee shirts. ( their all tall people wearing tall shirts

Ranger3325 said...

Breaktime is far from a "pool hall" it is a resteraunt with very good food, they have great bands and Pat who owns Breaktime is a good man who has given a lot to the community,and I applaud him for trying to keep his establisment safe for his patrons.

Anonymous said...

its a shame that they have to give these rules to adults, when i was growing up here in salisbury everytime we had a dance club open for us teenagers to hang out at and even skateland too, they were all shut down because of the stupid violence people brought in, and now as adults they are still bringing it in, now the teenagers or the adults have nowhere to go to enjoy themselves safely, the same teenagers that had the dance clubs shut down back then are probably the same ones, now as adults, making our bars unsafe, why cant we get rid of this violence in our city so maybe our children as well as us adults can have some fun outside of our home, now my husband got laughing though at the timberland boots part because he wears a fancy type of tim boots with his kakhis and dress shirt and tie, hes a manager of a local pharmacy and he is a nice law abiding citizen, he wears them because they were the most comfortable dress shoe he could find to walk in all day but they are a boot, so i guess he cant go in there for his business meetings any more????? or when he takes the employees there for their birthday lunshes like he does alot???

Anonymous said...

4:21 YES!. I have been trying all day to remember what was the name of the bar that got closed down due to constant fighting: MULLIGANS!

I'm a young black male. I want people to realize that the group that is out there causing trouble every where they go represents a small minority of people (black and white), while a large number of young blacks dress in hip-hop fashion. Most of us will put up with a form of dress code because we also want to have a good time without having to watch over our backs. Or we will dress as we want and go somewhere else.

But come on Breaktime: NO TIMS?! Everyone (young blacks, whites, the dude just leaving the construction site) either wears Tims or a similar work boot.

JonC said...

I have been going to breaktime for a long time. I wear timberland boots, i tip well, am polite, have never started a fight, have never sold drugs or anything of the sort. wake up people this is not right. a dress code is understandable but to say you can not wear boots is crazy. now that i have said my peace, i will exercise my option to not support breaktime

Anonymous said...

Maybe some Breaktime customers were complaining about not feeling safe with the gang crowd hanging out there. The business is probably just trying to keep their regular customers happy and make them feel safe so they will come back and spend more money. If people start staying away because it's too scary then they'll start losing money.

Anonymous said...

People have to look at the rules this way: It's a safety measure, not discrimination. Rules 1-8 have been there for years. It appears that rules 9-17 have been recently added to increase the integrity of the security in their establishment.

Anyone who looks at the rules closely will see that the rules state "no coats worn inside." What's wrong with walking in the door and taking your coat off?

And I highly doubt that the the wording of the Timberland boots rule is just aimed at specifically Timberland-brand boots. The reason I say this is that if you read through the above comments, you will see more people refer to the type of boots as "Tims".

There are very few places to go out and have a good time in this area. Let alone a place that you can enjoy, relax and most importantly, feel safe... And if other bars in the area don't go that very route, they too will end up like other bars that have gotten shut down for poor clientele behavior.

Anonymous said...

Joe , I bow to thee ! How you continue to get over a 100 comments on a subject is amazing ! You are the master !

Anonymous said...

Well Joe I respect your choice not to go there but it may be the only safe place to go if the rules are strictly enforced

Anonymous said...

when I worked at seacrets- while I was there they began implementing their dress codes- two men, mid 20's one white and one black got together to test just how blind justice really is on the shore-

Both men wore the same exact outfit on several occasions to the door- repeatedly the black man was turned away and the white man was let in without a second glance.

from what I overheard the two men documented this and sued for a huge sum of money.

someone needs to do this at Breaktime.

Anonymous said...

10:43 They aren't telling anyone what kind of boots they can wear, they're telling everyone what kind of boots they can wear inside this privately owned business. If folks don't like the rules, they don't have to go inside this establishment. Very simple game.

Anonymous said...

If it has to do with anything ,it's not Racism .... it's Stereotype ..... a lot of people never know the difference between the two and always have to automatically throw the word Racist out there ..... when they clearly aren't .... some people need to learn the difference between the two .

Anonymous said...

This has been a dress code in all most of the bars and clubs in Baltimore for the last 5 years they have to protect there businesses and people down here are starting to act like the inner city so when people cant go out and have a couple drinks and not want to shoot,someone business owners have to put dress codes in order to enter and I dont blame them ,

Anonymous said...

I think Breaktime has a wonderful idea. I've never been there but I think i'll take my wife there.

Anonymous said...

I moved to Eastern Shore to get my kids out of the Baltimore City. Now I feel like I am living back in Balto. City, When I turn the news on . What is going on down here on the shore?

joealbero said...

TDP, this happens fairly often here any more. Bill Duvall is sitting home watching this Blog along with Barrie Tilghman and Chief Webster thinking their themselves, self, I just couldn't stop this guy. By 1:00 this afternoon we were already past 330 comments for the day. I really don't care what the total is but just look at ANY other Website, including the Daily Times, WBOC, WMDT and any Blog and we do more comments in one day then they do in more than a week to a month.

People are getting involved. People are tired of the way things used to be run. We, meaning YOU and ME are fighting them. We're not accepting their brainwashing ways and we're making public figures, busineses and individuals accountable. WE are making a difference. With Barrie Tilghman gone, Mike Dunn, Chief Webster, people feel more free to comments without fear of retaliation.

Life is good. Should I retire again, now that we've achieved our goal??????

I'm just trying to see if Michael Schwartze will run with that in the hopes of getting more than 50 hits a day. ROTFLMBO!

joealbero said...

I should add, Breaktime should be buying ad space from me with all the free press they got from me and the tens of thousands of vititors who read this article today alone.

Anonymous said...

6:35 Seacrets? They still have the policy in place so it couldn't have been that bad.

The Third Guy said...

I thought they already bought you.

joealbero said...

Third Guy, there isn't anyone on the entire Eastern Shore than can afford to buy me. That's why we're so successful.

The Third Guy said...

Just checkin.

Anonymous said...

Joe, you are a friend of mine and so is Duvall. I can promise you he isn't reading you but I am sure Webster and Tilghman are. It's all about what is between the ears. There is a huge difference between the above.

Anonymous said...

Joe , You can not retire! No one does it like you !! Please Stay with us all !!!

joealbero said...

Friend 7:47, that's a shame because Bill would be proud of how we have evolved. Considering he was the Godfather of Blogs back in the day, he has seen the end result of ALL of those he also fought. Together we not only won the battles, we won the war. My hope is that he is well and enjoying our victory.

doug wilkerson said...

Hows Mr Caldwell?

Anonymous said...

Here's the thing people--It's not discriminating based on race, gender, disability, or anything of that sort. They have every right to a dress code ands to enforce it, as even if it's open to the public it is PRIVATELY OWNED. If I don't want people with orange shirts in my business I could choose to do so with a big ole sign on the door. The FREE COUNTRY deal goes both ways. You have the choice to not enter if you don't agree with the rules whether you're breaking them or not! You have that freedom! Don't like this? Don't go there!

joealbero said...

TDP, there are many days in which I truly consider it. However, it has become a way of life for me and I truly have no plans on giving it up. That is, unless someone wants to pay me some hefty money to walk away. It's been a long 5 years. I have fought more battles in my lifetime than any other person I have ever met. Many say, why not go out on top, they're right. However, there is still much work to be done.

In the mean time, I know I'd like to find more time to continue volunteering and encourage others to do more for their community. We'll see how things go at the polls this next go around and that will determine wheather I will keep with it or not.

Now I have to go. I have a meeting with my friend Fernando. I'm not going anywhere any time soon.

joealbero said...

Doug, Bob is doing well and I'm sure he'll appreciate your asking.

Anonymous said...

This is not discrimination, I am sure these rules have something to do with them looking at "history", if most of their troubles have been with ones wearing the things no longer allowed, guess what, those people are not allowed. If most of their problems were from people wearing all red you would not be able to wear all red...I hate the people who scream discrimination. Clean your acts up and we wouldn't need clothing rules, also put a little arch in those brims, I would say "NO FLAT BRIMS"

Anonymous said...

My only concern is that IF they let someone in who DOES have boots on or a large purse, even by accident, and then they turn someone else away, they could be open to a discrimination suit.

I think they should spend some time making these airtight before posting them. Some of them are open to interpretation, which is where legality becomes a problem.

Anonymous said...

several establishments around town have adopted these policies as a way to deter violence. the sad truth is: if someone wants to commit a violent act, they're going to do it, regardless of a dress code. it's obvious that these policies are directed at a certain group of people, and it is unfortunate that the acts of a few individuals ruin it for everyone else. granted, these are private businesses, and they reserve the right to enforce whatever rules they wish, however, they are treating their customers like criminals before they even get in the door. bars and clubs should have adequate security in place to prevent violent incidents. in my experience, i have seen bouncers at various bars actually encouraging altercations instead of preventing them. and that's precisely why i do not patronize these businesses.

Tired of Fredrickson's Follies said...

If you think this is crazy, check out the Wicomico County Board of Education's webite and read the new dress code policy they are trying to sneak by the public (parents) to adopt March 9th if "no questions arise"....this is a whole topic within itself in which to respond.....you'll be shocked

www.wcboe.org

Anonymous said...

After reading all of these comments I took a few minutes to look at the local calls for service from the SPD and WCSD...anyone want to hazzard a guess as to what I found? Now think about this - where can you go for a good time without the hassel in Salisbury? Not many places to be sure. In my opinion (along with a nickle which won't get you a cup of coffee) I'm thinking that it is not the local establishments that are the problem - it is the clientele. How about we all just stop beating around the bush and just come out and say that none of us want to hang around the human trash that seems to frequent so many of these establishments. When I first moved here years ago, it was no problem to go out for a few drinks. You didn't hear about shootings and all of the violent things we hear about daily now days. The truth from my viewpoint is that there is just so much trash, and they all seem to wear the same types of clothing to identify themselves and fit in with the rest of the trash. Note that I have NOT identified a particular race here - trash is trash, and our society as a whole seems to glorify this. I applaud Breaktime for trying to clean things up there, but how successful will they really be when the majority of the area's populace is just a waste. I wonder if a dress code (coat and tie for example) would really change things - the answer is simple - NO! The business would go under as nobody would go there. So here we are, back to the beginning of this post. I think I will stick to drinking beer in my own home, reading Joe's blogs, and laugh at the idiots that try to justify themselves. Dogfishhead is good beer.

Modulus said...

9:36

EVO is great beer! And local.

Anonymous said...

I stopped reading the comments after a time. But one. It's not aimed at a group of people. All AMERICANS of all age groups wear clothing that is baggy. Now this is mostly teens and young adults. It's not something based off of ones skin color. And about America being free. It is free, and that's why this PRIVATE business has the right to say what can be worn in their stores. Ever heard of No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service? That's what this comes down to. The use of this bar is a privilege not a right.

Anonymous said...

It means take your outdoor coat off as soon as you step inside the door. No wearing it while inside during your stay.

D'oh, people.

Anonymous said...

I can't wear Timberland boots, yet I can wear snow boots or hip boots?

Anonymous said...

The policy was actually set up to protect those coming in. My uncle bounces there and said since they had lightened up some, now the gangs are starting to congregate there 3 to 4 nights a week. He said they flash their symbols all night and threaten the bouncers and their families if they think they are being to 'tough' on them. Plus he said they are disrespectful and rude to everyone in there, not just the staff. The regulars and those just coming in have stopped coming or shortened their time there because they are very uncomfortable with these people hanging out in there. Whomever said it is discrimination needs to go in there and see what it's like. You will see no discrimination what so ever but those trying to protect everyone around them. I do not think Salisbury realizes what a gang problem we have.

Anonymous said...

ok i have been to bt on several occasion,and yes some of these are fine to follow.bt just like 6:35 said i have seen this happen here too .what is good for one should be good for all but its not. there are certain bouncer there that do discrimanate.they have never done it to me but i have seen it ,and it was very recent. i think the bouncer think they are GOD and they are far from that. a friend of mine sent her drink back because she said she wasnt paying $6.00 for a glass of coke i tried it there was no alcohol in it at all instead of waitress bringing the drink back the bouncer does and then stands there until she tries the drink, wth is that ?i mean the last time i sent my food back the cook didnt come stay beside me.yes i believe there should be a dress code but i think they have gone a little far with other things.and yeah you could leave your coat in the car but the last time i was there it was freezing in there.

Anonymous said...

10:31 that's right, because it ain't the white folks committing the violent crimes either!

Anonymous said...

1:14 I like the duck/gang analogy! And they have lots of ducks outside Brew River!

DJ,
I like what you had to say too.

This site is so much more entertaining than the trash people watch on tv nowadays. I'd much rather sit at my computer to wind down than watch tv shows.

jspur said...

I dont see anything wrong with these new rules.

They are to protect you.

Nothing about them discriminates on any race.

If you dont like it, dont go there.

Its that simple.

Seriously young anon's grow up.

So they dont want you in there in boots, or with your underwear hangin out.

And why the heck do you need to be wearing sunglasses indoors anyway!

People just look for reasons to pull the race card.

Breaktime can make their own rules. If you dont like. Dont go.

They wont care either way.

And if you are the type that is made about these rules, you are probably the type they are trying to keep out!

Anonymous said...

all of these rules go with common respect and decency as well as to protect the well being of the patrons. 1.sleeveless shirts on men commonly referred to as a wife beater should be worn as a undergarment a everyday shirt and for women some sleeveless shirts look trashy and assuming trashy is not what Breaktime is going for ask that you do not wear them. 2.excessively baggy clothing well again with the trashiness thing as well as the fact that baggy clothing is the perfect place to store things such as liquor you brought in your self or hey even a hand gun. 3undergarments visible again with that being trashy no one wants to see your underwear or bra out in a public place.4.solid or torn clothing i understand that someone might be done with a long days of work and just want a beer but obviously Breaktime is attempting to keep the appearance of an establishment that attracts clean well groomed people.5.the no profanity or ethnic remarks on clothing...noooo that could never offend anyone do you really think that an older couple out for a drink wants to come in a see F*** wrote on the back of someones shirt i know my grandparents would be offended and would as well find that trashy and disrespectful.6. no hats my grandfather and father always taught me that it was rude to wear a hat inside of a building. 7.abrasive behavior and vulgar language often leads to fights as well as offending others that are around you. 8.shirts and shoes required...why would you not wear shoes and a shirt to a bar??? 9.no Timberlands or similar boots... if a fight were to break out and someone were to be wearing boots would you rather be kicked in the head with a big bulky boot with a hard sole or tennis shoes? i pick the tennis shoes. 10.no tall or over-sized tees well unless you are tall or over-sized i see no real reason in wearing them they look all baggy and trashy. 11.no book-bags or large purses... your in a bar why do you need a book-bag or a over-sized purse again perfect places to hide things that should not be brought into the bar. 12.no excessive jewelery this is maybe the only one i cant put a reason to. 13. no coats worn inside i am pretty sure they have heat and its not freezing inside plus drinking always seems to make me warmer so why would you need a coat unless again it were to hide things that shouldn't be in the bar? 14.no pocket or wallet chains...hmmm what a perfect thing to hit someone with if a fight were to break out.15. no bandannas or hoods up well a lot of gangs distinguish themselves with bandannas of certain colors and again with the its rude to have a hat on inside i still see a hood as a type of hat. 16. well again it wont be freezing inside so there wont be a need for gloves and the sunglasses...your inside why would you need sunglasses on where there is no sun? 17. no signatory colors this is mainly for gangs i am pretty sure if its a fan wearing a football teams colors they are not going to complain but if you are for no reason decked out in the color red they might be a little suspicious.
so no the rules are not aimed at one race or another they were made to keep trouble and trashiness out.and i am sorry if certain people distinguish themselves as a race according to what this dress code asks people not to wear into there establishment.

no sugarcoating said...

hats off to break time for trying to keep the trash out! 99% of this code is directed to #1 males because whenever they frequent a place, trouble comes with it . look at the bottle factory, chef freds , brew river ,it does not matter. bar, store, housing complex or neighborhood its not fiction it is fact! the stores either close, the bars either close and the housing complexs either have to have a fence and armed guards like the pemberton complex or they end up like the booth street complex.but thats to be expected from a group of ppl who do not have to earn anything its all given free and has been for going on 50 years. problem with america now is you do not have enuff ppl working to keep the ones who do not work end of story!

Mandy L said...

9:18 - I'm curious. What part of the proposed dress code are you opposed to? I read through it, and see nothing offensive, but maybe I'm missing something.

Anonymous said...

The Board's new dress code has some good points but some are absolutely ridiculous!

Anonymous said...

8:28, LOL @ "NO FLAT BRIMS". I tell these young dudes the same thing man. Back in the day you would have got joked on for that square brim, especially since these guys buy the fitted hats that are 2 sizes too big. You look like a dodo in your big brother's hat.

Honestly I believe the dress code will weed out individuals of a certain age (chronilogical or mental age). I just hate that they included no tims on the list. Thats a bit overboard.

Anonymous said...

I think it's funny that Joe didn't approve my comment. I love Breaktime and have been there often. They have definitely been trying to weed the "thugs" out by charging cover most nights of the week, and by the owner
telling the dj not to play rap music. Ian, the dj, told me this himself. I've never had a problem there, only since they started charging cover on say, a Tuesday or Sunday night. I'd rather go to Market Street where it's nicer and safer :) and pay a little more for a drink. Just my opinion. Btw, I am a white female - dug out my years old Timberlands last week and wore them there because of the ice and snow. I don't recall seeing this sign though. I'll be glad to put back on my cute shoes :)

Anonymous said...

7:49, cute comment, reminds me of my lady. We go quite often when I'm working in Princess Anne-Salisbury. The cover charge turned us off because who wants to pay to just walk into the door of a sports bar that isn't even playing the music you like to hear. We usually cough up plenty of money after eating, drinking, and shooting pool (as well as appropriately tipping). By the way, this is all done while wearing my Tims. In fact I'll wager that many guys are like me; during winter, my Tims stay on my feet, unless I'm going somewhere nice.

Anonymous said...

Market street had a fight that police were called to Last friday early AM by the way 7:49

Anonymous said...

Yeah 8:22, and a friend of mine also fell out of a window there and the cops were called, even though Rob was adamant on no charges being pressed because it was an accident. Things happen. Especially when people are drinking, and that's to be expected. And actually, I have never myself witnessed a fight at Breaktime or Market Street, I just "feel" safer at Market IMO.

Anonymous said...

These are statutes. Our govenment issues statutes. Kings used to issue statutes.

We live under statutory law.

It may sound silly to some of you. Much like "you can't drive your vehicle more than 55 miles per hour".

It doesn't matter whether or not you are hurting anyone or damaging any property. You simply can't do it. If you do, the government takes away some of your allowance (property).

At Breaktime, you can't wear Timberline Boots. The owner doesn't like the brand, and so you can't wear it.

I wish the owner would decide you can smoke in his private business. That's what I wish. Stick it to the man.

Anonymous said...

Joe,

I'm not sure that you'll want to post this comment/story because of what it entails and because it is second hand (but I will swear to it's truth because I know the source personally), but I will leave that up to you. There is definitely a problem at this establishment. During this last month, a friend of mine was at Breaktime after 9pm. There are multiple restrooms in this place, and he used the one that was closest to the pool table he and his friends were using. As he was leaving the restroom, a group of young, black (african-american? I'm scared to say either these days) approached him and began to pick a fight because he was using 'their bathroom.' Apparently, they had decided that only blacks/african-americans could use that one, and anyone else had to use the other restroom in the building. With so many screaming about equality and discrimination, how can this happen? They've done this because they either think they're better and deserve something or because they just want to start a racial battle. I was appalled when I heard this story - I didn't grow up here, and I certainly don't understand this city.

Anonymous said...

10:33 or maybe your friend was just dealing with a group of @$$holes that were looking to mess with him because he seemed like an easy win. Don't try to paint this as some "black people are violent" type of thing. I've been going to breaktime since I came to the area 5 years ago and I have never had a problem or scene anything similar with anyone, black or white.

Chimera said...

I work with the public so I just wanted to add my little piece about the clothing.
Whenever I see a guy with a baggy white T-shirt,pants hanging down to show his boxers,wearing Timberlands,hoodies and those puffy coats,I know what they are,regardless of the shade of their skin.All the gangbangers and wannabes dress like this.Then they open their mouth and prove they are idiots.I wouldnt want to hang out at a bar and look at or hear that crap after putting up with it all week on the job.

Anonymous said...

Seacrets has similar rules, and has for as long as I can remember, and I don't hear people complaining about that. They still like to go there. From a security stand point, Break Times customers should appreciate these rules... they're in place to keep them safe from ANYONE carrying a concealed weapon or wearing clothing that more often than not is offensive. People are less likely to cause trouble if they know up front that it will not be tolerated.

Anonymous said...

so all the gangbangers are going to have to start dressing up to do their crime. Im sorry, but dress codes will not stop any of this from happening.

jspur said...

I love how everyone is using the term "gangbangers" haha! Showing your age! Sounds like you don't go out anyway. So why all of the fuss?

Anonymous said...

Actually 3:12, people were complaining about Seacrets. There were rumors of a protest although I don't know if it actually went down a few years back. I myself stopped going for awhile because the bouncers "selectively enforced" the dress code in years passed.